The Maldives is a popular destination for sport fishing and has a rich marine environment with a wide variety of species. Some of the fish species that you can catch while fishing in the Maldives include:

Big Game Fishing

Game fishing in the Maldives is an extremely popular activity for traveling anglers and locals alike. The Maldives is renowned for its rich marine life, and the waters surrounding the islands are home to many different species of big game fish, including blue marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dorado, and many others. Below is a run down of some of the main target species that can be caught while game fishing in the Maldives:

Tuna
Yellowfin, Bigeye and Skipjack Tuna are commonly caught species in the Maldives.

Wahoo
This is a fast and powerful gamefish, known for its delicious meat and aggressive fighting style.

Marlin
Both Black and Blue Marlin can be caught in the Maldives.

Sailfish
Known for their incredible acrobatics and speed, sailfish can be caught in the Maldives from November to April.

Swordfish
This species is widely distributed in the Indian Ocean and can be caught in the Maldives.

Dorado (Mahi-mahi):
These colorful fish are often caught in the Maldives and are prized for their delicious meat.

Barracuda
This species is commonly caught in the Maldives and is known for its fierce fighting ability.

Topwater casting and jigging are two popular fishing techniques used in the Maldives.

Topwater casting is popular in the Maldives for targeting species such as giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, coral trout, red bass and jobfish. Jigging is another popular technique for targeting dogtooth tuna, amberjack, groupers, and snappers.

Both techniques are highly effective in the Maldives, as the warm tropical waters are home to a diverse range of predatory fish species.

The Maldives is one of the world’s top fly fishing destinations, particularly for species such as bonefish, permit, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna and sailfish. The clear, warm waters surrounding the atolls offer excellent visibility, and the abundant marine life makes for some exciting fly fishing opportunities. Below is a run down of some of the main target species that can be caught while fly fishing in the Maldives:

Bonefish
This is one of the most sought after species in the Maldives and is known for its speed and agility.

Trevally
There are several species of trevally in the Maldives, including giant trevally and bluefin trevally, which are popular targets for fly fishing.

Tuna
There are several species of tuna in the Maldives, including yellowfin and skipjack, which are known for their speed and strength.

Snapper
Snapper is a common bottom-dwelling species in the Maldives and can be caught while fly fishing.

Barracuda
Barracuda is a predatory species in the Maldives and can be caught while fly fishing.

Regardless of your experience level, fly fishing in the Maldives is an unforgettable experience, and one that is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

When planning a fishing trip to the Maldives, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:

Consider your target species

Are you ready to reel in an unforgettable fishing experience? Planning ahead and booking early is key to securing your desired dates in the Maldives! With great year-round sport fishing, make sure you consider your target species and plan your trip accordingly. As the Maldives is such a popular destination, trips can be booked up to 12-18 months in advance, so don’t miss out – get in early! To learn more, check out our Maldives Fishing Seasons page.

Pack the right gear

Make sure you’re ready for a great day out on the water. If you’re not sure what to bring, just ask – we’d be happy to provide some recommendations on the best outfits to assist you land that trophy sport fish.

Consider a multiple day fishing adventure

If you’re looking for the ultimate fishing experience, best to book an extended adventure? Our adventures provide all the necessary gear, as well as experienced crew to help you land that trophy fish.

Sustainable fishing practices

Remember to practice catch and release as much as possible to preserve the local fish population for generations to come. If you’d like to enjoy some of the local seafood delicacies, most edible fish species are sustainably taken for local consumption.

Respect local fishing regulations

Make sure you’re up to date on the local fishing regulations before you cast a line. Your guides will have all the information you need to make sure you’re following the regulations, including any restrictions on the type of gear you can use or the size of fish you can keep.